wideband Delphi

A consensus-driven estimation technique where subject matter experts first submit independent estimates across multiple iterations, then meet to review and discuss after each round, refining numbers until agreement is reached.

Key Points

  • Iterative rounds of independent estimating followed by facilitated group discussion.
  • Aim is to converge on a common estimate and reduce bias and anchoring.
  • Often includes a neutral facilitator and may anonymize inputs to prevent dominance.
  • Useful when data is uncertain for scope, cost, duration, or risk estimates.

Example

An agile team must estimate the effort to integrate a new payment gateway. Each SME privately submits an effort estimate. The facilitator shares a summary, the team discusses assumptions, and everyone re-estimates. After several rounds, the group aligns on a consensus range of 40 to 48 hours with agreed assumptions documented.

PMP Example Question

Which estimating technique has experts provide independent estimates over several rounds, with team discussions after each round, to reach consensus?

  1. Wideband Delphi
  2. Analogous estimating
  3. Planning poker
  4. Three-point estimating

Correct Answer: A — Wideband Delphi

Explanation: Wideband Delphi uses multiple cycles of independent estimates followed by group review to reach agreement, unlike analogous (historical comparison), planning poker (quick consensus via cards), or three-point estimating (optimistic/most likely/pessimistic).

AI for Agile Project Managers and Scrum Masters

Become an AI-first leader and transform your agile practice by leveraging artificial intelligence as your most powerful co-pilot. This course is designed to help you drive efficiency, insight, and innovation, ensuring you stay at the forefront of a rapidly evolving project management landscape.

This isn't about replacing human intuition—it's about augmenting it. You'll master prompt engineering to automate mundane tasks, freeing up your time for high-impact strategic leadership and creative problem-solving. Learn to refine backlogs, create strategic roadmaps, and integrate AI seamlessly into your agile ceremonies.

Gain predictive power by using AI-driven insights to anticipate project risks and seize new opportunities for more reliable outcomes. We deliver practical, prompt-based workflows and proven strategies built around real-world agile challenges that you can implement immediately within your framework.

Master foundational AI concepts specifically relevant to Scrum environments while developing advanced skills to handle diverse agile scenarios. You will learn to champion an AI-enabled culture within your organization, fostering a dynamic environment of continuous improvement and superior team delivery.

Ready to lead the future of agile and make data-driven decisions that cut through complexity? Join a community of forward-thinking professionals and position yourself as an indispensable leader in the AI era. Enroll now and unlock your future!



Advance your Lean Six Sigma expertise!

HK School of Management helps you take Lean Six Sigma to the next level—without the overwhelm. Master advanced statistical tools, Excel-based analysis, and real-world improvement techniques to solve complex problems with confidence. For the price of lunch, you get practical templates, guided examples, and hands-on project experience you can use immediately at work. Backed by our 30-day money-back guarantee—zero risk, real impact.

Learn More